Contamination concerns after Biggera Creek, Labrador turns white

Action is being taken after a section of a Gold Coast creek turned white. READ MORE

Action is being taken after a section of a Gold Coast creek turned white.

Biggera Creek, which runs from Parkwood through Labrador, Biggera Waters and Runaway Bay and flows out into the Broadwater, was reported to council by concerned locals this week after sightings of the strange white contaminant through parts of Labrador.

Locals jumped onto Facebook community pages to share their concerns.

“Beautiful morning for a walk, then you come across this,” one person wrote.

Fears after Gold Coast creek turns white. Picture: Facebook

“Back of the hockey fields – looks as tho (sic) litres of disinfectant thrown in. Further up the creek near Aldi, all clear.”

Others said the creek looked to be “in serious trouble” and needed “urgent attention”.

“Massive fines and gaol time need to be issued to anyone responsible for dumping chemicals,” another said.

It still unclear what the substance is, with council confirming they responded to a report of a white substance in Biggera Creek earlier this week.

The spokesperson said environmental health officers investigated and identified the source of the contaminant as of Wednesday.

Releasing contaminants into the environment is an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 in Queensland.

Fears after Gold Coast creek turns white. Picture: Facebook

Violations can lead to significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

The spokesperson confirmed action is being taken under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 where water pollution offences can result in a penalty infringement notice from $2503 to $12517.

Council officers will continue to monitor the area to ensure compliance and protect the waterway.